[4] Through the 1980s, the area was mostly occupied by the gangs The Pagans and The Hell's Angels because law enforcement only calmed extreme gang-activity and did not attempt to prevent it.

[4] It now has a reputation of not only being an easy access to the James River, but a place for other outdoor activities as well such as trail running, biking, and bird watching.

[6] According to park official Ralph White, “police are really no longer required on a full time weekend basis as long as the traffic crowding is handled by volunteers”.

[4] The Park System helped to create the access to the rapids in order to ensure an easy place to raft, kayak, and canoe.

Aside from Belle Isle, the majority of kayak, paddle, and raft trips that start at Pony Pasture typically end at Pipeline Rapids or Reedy Creek.

[4] The property is officially a part of the James River Park System, and the JRPS oversees and cares for the land, which gives people access to the island.

[4] The island has become a popular destination amongst people due to the fact that is undeveloped, unpopulated, and generally perceived as a peaceful, quiet area.

[10] According to James River Park manager Ralph White, the island has been home to many creatures such as albino deer, black bears, raccoons, skunk, muskrat, and wild turkey.

[4] Williams Island was under the ownership of the City of Richmond Public Utilities Department, until the James River Park System was allowed to use it as a wildlife management refuge in 2012.